Chapter 8, Words from the Heart

Indeed, just now, upon hearing Peng Yue's words, Zhu Houzong could not help but feel a sense of emotion. It turned out that Yang Yiqing had been contemplating his own faults until his death, without placing blame on Zhu. Initially, Zhu had some doubts about this, but seeing the sincerity in Peng Yue's expression, he began to believe it. He also wished to believe that the minister he relied upon had been thinking of his well-being until the end, rather than his own mistakes. Initially, Zhu had some doubts about this, but seeing the sincerity in Peng Yue's expression, he began to believe it. He also wished to believe that the minister he relied upon had been thinking of his well-being until the end, rather than his own mistakes.

"It is not that you, Minister Yang, are confused, but rather... I am the one who is confused..." Zhu Houzong said with a furrowed brow, sighing. At this moment, he gradually began to understand the matter. In fact, it is quite common for officials to exchange gifts privately, and two hundred taels of silver is indeed not a large sum. Even if it were considered as a reward for Yang Yiqing for erecting a monument, it would still be reasonable. The reason I reacted so strongly was simply because Zhang Cong and others brought this trivial matter to the forefront, and since this issue involved Zhang Yong, it unearthed old accounts, leading me to misinterpret the situation along that line. In fact, it is quite common for officials to exchange gifts privately, and two hundred taels of silver is indeed not a large sum. Even if it were considered as a reward for Yang Yiqing for erecting a monument, it would still be reasonable. The reason I reacted so strongly was simply because Zhang Cong and others brought this trivial matter to the forefront, and since this issue involved Zhang Yong, it unearthed old accounts, leading me to misinterpret the situation along that line.

Lord Yang did not harbor resentment towards His Majesty, but rather towards himself... Peng Yue understood that he absolutely could not attribute the mistake to Zhu Houzong, even if Zhu Houzong was indeed at fault. "Lord Yang regretted until his death for having done things that displeased His Majesty. He said he should not have accepted the two hundred gold coins from Zhang Rong, and he even regretted promoting Zhang Yong's brother and erecting a monument for the deceased Zhang Rong..."

"Your Majesty, please do not blame yourself..." Peng Yue noticed that Zhu Houzong seemed to have regrets, and he couldn't help but feel pleased. "Lord Yang has always said that this was his own mistake. He also entrusted me to request Your Majesty to dismiss the official positions of Zhang Yong's elder brother, Zhang Fu, and his younger brother, Zhang Rong, to prevent Your Majesty from being displeased because of this..."

"Yes, Lord Yang mentioned that His Majesty will continue to carry out the cleaning of the estates with the assistance of Lord Zhang Cong, and to dismiss the officials guarding the palace..." Peng Yue looked steadfastly at Zhu Houzong, "Lord Yang also expressed his hope that His Majesty's reforms will proceed smoothly, ushering in a prosperous era and achieving lasting merits..."

Zhu Houcong seemed to have thought of something, and stood up: "You may elaborate on the detailed strategy."

Note: During the reign of Emperor Wu, the court was relatively chaotic. Initially, eunuchs held significant power, leading to the "Eight Tigers' misrule." Later, Liu Jin was plotted against and killed by Yang Yiqing and others, resulting in a gradual decline of eunuch influence. Subsequently, Qian Ning of the Jinyiwei gained the favor of Emperor Wu, causing turmoil in the court, and was later executed for treason. Finally, military official Jiang Bin rose to power, but was also executed immediately after the death of Emperor Wu

Your Majesty might as well mobilize the people's strength, guide public opinion, and impose constraints on the ministers. Moreover, with the presence of the Jinyiwei, it can prevent public opinion from spiraling into chaos. " Peng Yue observed that Zhu Houzong seemed somewhat hesitant, and quickly added the final remark.

Indeed, everyone loves to hear flattering words, and Zhu Houzong, as an emperor, is no exception. Upon hearing Peng Yue's praises, which sounded somewhat like flattery, he felt no discomfort in his heart. "Go back and convey a few words for me in front of Minister Yang's memorial hall, telling him not to blame himself any longer; I do not hold him accountable..."

Peng Yue, seeing Zhu Houzong's face filled with sorrow, recognized that it was not a pretense. He understood that Zhu Houzong was also deeply regretful and saddened by the situation, so he stepped forward and said: "Although Lord Yang is in good health, he has a strong and unyielding character. Upon realizing that Your Majesty doubts his loyalty, he could not help but feel distressed, which led to his growing agitation and ultimately this unfortunate incident..." At this point, Peng Yue's voice also became somewhat choked with emotion

With your talent, you must not remain in the position of a mere pedestrian official. My dear minister, you must not decline this time; I intend to transfer you to the Ministry of Personnel, and I will first appoint you as the chief official of the Ministry. At this moment, Zhu Houzong could hardly conceal his excitement upon hearing Peng Yue's words: "As for the matter of the newspaper, please deliberate carefully; you shall be in charge of this matter!"

"Peng Yue, what do you think I should do?" Zhu Houzong seemed not to intend to ask Peng Yue, yet inadvertently posed the question.

Peng Yue's expression changed as he said, "Yang Yiqing... what is the situation now?"

Your Majesty may instruct someone to put your thoughts, policies, and opinions in writing and publish them among the people. The public may also spontaneously organize to publish their opinions, provided that the government manages the process. This can both promote policies and create public opinion pressure to restrain the ministers, as well as enlighten the minds of the people. " Peng Yue carefully observed Zhu Houzong's expression

Your Majesty, this matter is a pioneering endeavor, and it must not be abandoned due to uncertainty..." Peng Yue also noticed Zhu Houzong's hesitation, "Consider Qin Shi Huang and Han Wu, both of whom were extraordinary talents with grand strategies. Was there any undertaking they embarked upon that was not a pioneering initiative? Your Majesty should not fear the unknown; only by daring to undertake pioneering endeavors can a lasting governance be achieved throughout the ages!

When have I ever doubted his loyalty?" After Zhu Houzhong finished speaking this sentence, he felt somewhat lacking in confidence, as he indeed harbored doubts about Yang Yiqing due to Yang Yiqing's acceptance of money from Zhang Rong, which subsequently led to his punishment of Yang Yiqing

Ah..." Peng Yue was taken aback, "Lord Yang... was overwhelmed with anger, developed sores on his back, and passed away yesterday.

Filial piety is the foremost of all virtues. I wish to elevate my parents' titles further, but alas, the ministers do not permit it, not even Zhang Cong and Gui E..." Zhu Houzong paused, not continuing his words

Emperor Xuanzong of our dynasty, in order to restrain his ministers and cultivate the power of the eunuchs, was able to contend with the officials. Peng Yue looked up and noticed that Huang Jin was absent, then continued, "However, allowing eunuchs to interfere in politics does not seem to be a wise move." Peng Yue glanced at Zhu Houzong; he seemed to have thought of something, but soon his expression dimmed.

What you said makes sense ... ... Zhu Houzhong seems to be trying hard to motivate himself, "I have been somewhat indecisive and overly hesitant ... ... "

However, this method sounds good, but its implementation may be challenging. Zhu Houzong's tone still carried some hesitation, and it was evident that he was not very confident about undertaking something that had not been attempted by previous dynasties.

Your Majesty is clear in rewards and punishments, truly a wise ruler!" Peng Yue, sensing the conversation was not going well, quickly shifted the topic away from Zhang Yong to avoid angering Zhu Houzong, "Thus, this is indeed the confusion that Lord Yang perceives in himself; he only wishes to remember Zhang Yong's great contributions while forgetting Zhang Yong's faults. Therefore, before Lord Yang passed away, he requested Your Majesty to retract the rewards given to Zhang Yong's family...

Come here, convey the decree, revoke the punishment against Yang Yiqing, reward him with two hundred gold, and posthumously honor him with the title "Wenxiang". Zhu Houzong can only manage to revoke the punishment against Yang Yiqing, which is already a significant concession on his part

Well, then let's just give this matter a try... Zhu Houzhong let out a long sigh, gazing deeply at Peng Yue, as if seeking some courage from him

Lord Yang also mentioned that Your Majesty should not hold a grudge against him, as he has already recognized his mistakes... Peng Yue discovered that using emotional manipulation on Zhu Houzong was quite effective, so he simply continued to weave lies, saying, "If Your Majesty is unwilling to forgive Lord Yang, I fear that even in the afterlife, Lord Yang will not be able to rest in peace..."

"Has Yang Aiqing mentioned anything else?" Zhu Houzhong asked as he stared at Peng Yue.

Ah? Zhu Houzhong could not help but feel a bit surprised, "I remember that Yang Aiqing's health... was not very good, right? When he served as the Grand Coordinator of the Three Borders, he even galloped on the battlefield. How did it suddenly... sigh..."

"Yang Yiqing is a loyal minister; I should not have doubted him," Zhu Houzong sighed deeply. He had not expected that Yang Yiqing, even on the brink of death, was still concerned about his prosperous era of peace. Could it truly be that a person, when facing death, speaks words of goodness? It seems that I have indeed wronged Yang Yiqing; he is truly a loyal minister of the ages.

Peng Yue quickly seized this opportunity: "Your Majesty's decree cannot be implemented, as it is hindered by the ministers. The ministers unite, and Your Majesty has no choice but to heed their counsel"

Zhu Houcong was dressed in plain clothes, his expression somewhat displeased. After listening to the imperial edict, Peng Yue observed cautiously. It had been many days since Zhu Houcong had issued the edict, and he had not acknowledged Peng Yue; each time, Peng Yue could only leave awkwardly. Peng Yue was well aware that due to Yang Yiqing, Zhu Houcong had to harbor doubts about him. However, Peng Yue had a premonition that today Zhu Houcong would say something to him.

Thus, I would like to thank Your Majesty on behalf of Lord Yang..." Peng Yue said as he bowed down, "Your Majesty is wise, and we, as your subjects, are deeply moved in our hearts.

No need for that... Zhang Rong, Zhang Fu has performed quite well in his position in the Jinyiwei... Originally, Zhu Houzong was merely dissatisfied with Peng Yue's defense of Zhang Yong, but now upon hearing Yang Yiqing's intention to punish Zhang Yong's family, he thought carefully and realized that they indeed had not committed any wrongdoing. If he were to punish them in this way, would it not make him seem petty?

Lord Yang mentioned that he truly only feels grateful for Zhang Yong's contribution in eliminating Liu Jin... Peng Yue slowly said while observing Zhu Houzong's expression, "Lord Yang stated that during the initial chaos of the 'Eight Tigers', it was primarily Liu Jin who committed the most evil, followed by Gu Dayong, while the others merely played a supporting role. Ultimately, it was Zhang Yong who made the greatest effort in removing Liu Jin, and his contributions cannot be overlooked. After Liu Jin was eliminated, it was Qian Ning and Jiang Bin who caused chaos, and the eunuchs had little significant influence thereafter. Although Zhang Yong committed many wrongdoings, this merit is sufficient to outweigh his faults, especially since Zhang Yong also contributed significantly in quelling the rebellion of Prince Ning..."

"I will certainly convey Your Majesty's will to ... ..." Peng Yue said softly as he raised his head

Peng Yue knew that Zhu Houzong was filial, yet he was still dissatisfied with the results of the discussions on propriety and even wanted to overturn the decision. Moreover, he was surprised that Zhang Cong and others did not agree with him: "They haven't even moved his parents to the ancestral temple, yet they are quite serious about this," Peng Yue thought to himself.

"In fact, this is not a big deal at all..." Zhu Houzhong said in a low voice

Hearing this, Zhu Houzhong also let out a helpless sigh

Moreover, at this moment, Peng Yue harbored a grand idea in his heart: "He wanted to utilize the wisdom of contemporary people to gradually promote social progress in the Ming Dynasty; perhaps future history would thus undergo a slight change!" Upon thinking of this, Peng Yue could not help but feel excited.

But Your Majesty should not overthink due to some details. Throughout history, has there ever been a perfect plan for any major reform?" Peng Yue slowly guided Zhu Houzong, "Moreover, the people are currently living in peace and contentment. Would it not be better to give them an opportunity for literacy education? If any mistakes occur, we can swiftly improve and remedy the situation. Furthermore, the Jinyiwei maintains strict surveillance over the populace, ensuring that no disturbances will arise to displease Your Majesty!

Of course, Peng Yue had his own plans. He knew that Yang Yiqing was dead and that he must make good use of Yang Yiqing's death. By leveraging emotions to move Zhu Houzong, he could certainly highlight the magnificent and noble image of Yang Yiqing. Moreover, stating that Yang Yiqing supported Zhang Cong's reforms would undoubtedly help shape Yang Yiqing's image as someone who was devoted to the public good. In this way, it would actually serve as a blow to Zhang Cong. Furthermore, if Zhang Cong were to later attempt to blackmail or take revenge on him, Zhu Houzong would surely grow even more disdainful of Zhang Cong upon recalling today's events, thus providing him with an invisible layer of protection. After all, he was still supporting Zhang Cong and had not uttered a single word to defame Zhang Cong.

Your Majesty is not hesitating, but rather considering matters thoroughly. After all, Your Majesty must always think from the perspective of the nation's grand strategy, while our thoughts are rather one-sided..." Peng Yue hurriedly tried to smooth things over for Zhu Houzong

Sigh... I have never blamed you, Minister Yang..." Zhu Houzong's expression darkened as he recalled how he had wronged Yang Yiqing. The fact that Yang Yiqing could act in such a manner made him feel a deep sense of regret. However, he was unaware that these profoundly lamentable words were merely lies fabricated on the spot by Peng Yue.

Thank you for your grace, Your Majesty. Peng Yue bowed and paid his respects

Zhu Houcong now reflects that since his ascension to the throne, Zhang Yong has indeed been very honest and has not committed any wrongdoings. It was merely his lingering resentment towards the "Eight Tigers' chaotic governance" during the reign of Emperor Wuzong that led him to hold significant grievances against Zhang Yong. In retrospect, even if Yang Yiqing and Zhang Yong had private interactions and communications, it should not have raised any unusual thoughts or caused any disturbances; this matter was indeed a result of his overthinking.

Moreover, Zhu Houzong could not help but think of Zhang Cong. Zhu Houzong was a clever man; he had now realized that his emotions had been overly agitated and that he had been misled by Zhang Cong and others, which led him to wrongly accuse Yang Yiqing. However, since it was a decree he had personally issued, he could only swallow this bitter loss. Furthermore, before his death, Yang Yiqing still supported Zhang Cong's reforms, hoping that he could continue to employ Zhang Cong. In comparison, Zhu Houzong could not help but admire Yang Yiqing's character, while developing a slight aversion to Zhang Cong. Yet, he was unaware that all of this was merely his imagination; in fact, before his death, Yang Yiqing had nearly berated Zhang Cong to death. Additionally, whenever Zhu Houzong thought about how he had been used by Zhang Cong, the self-proclaimed clever Zhu Houzong felt uncomfortable in his heart

There is no need for that... Zhu Houzhong let out a bitter smile, "In fact, Zhang Yong performed quite well during his tenure..."

However, Zhang Yong's faults are also numerous; I cannot only consider his merits without weighing his mistakes. Zhu Houzong said solemnly, clearly the shadow of the "Eight Tigers in Power" cannot be dispelled by just a few words from Peng Yue

This publication can be called a "newspaper." Peng Yue answered Zhu Houzong with a confident gaze, "Your Majesty is determined to reform and establish a new government. Not only must the old be reformed, but innovation is also essential. A newspaper can serve as the vanguard of Your Majesty's reforms, guiding the direction of Your Majesty's initiatives and heralding the success of Your Majesty's reforms!" Peng Yue is increasingly realizing the importance of reading more ancient texts and writing articles. Engaging in conversation with the erudite Zhu Houzong is indeed challenging, as he finds himself at a loss for words!

Lord Yang also mentioned that he was momentarily confused; originally, he only intended to honor the old friendship by erecting a monument for Zhang Yong. He stated that he should not have accepted the two hundred gold pieces, which, while not a large sum, provided grounds for others to speak against him, putting His Majesty in a difficult position. As a result, he lost the two hundred gold pieces that His Majesty had bestowed upon him. Lord Yang lamented that he suffered a loss, having received Zhang Yong's two hundred gold pieces but losing the two hundred gold pieces granted by His Majesty, which was indeed a case of losing much for the sake of a small gain. The two hundred gold pieces from His Majesty carry significant weight; how could they be compared to Zhang Yong's two hundred gold pieces... Lord Yang wept over his losses, having received Zhang Yong's two hundred gold pieces but losing the two hundred gold pieces granted by His Majesty, which was indeed a case of losing much for the sake of a small gain. The two hundred gold pieces from His Majesty carry significant weight; how could they be compared to Zhang Yong's two hundred gold pieces..." Peng Yue spoke with great emotion, almost to the point of shedding tears.